Construction underway on Maypole Heritage Park in Oldenburg

(OLDENBURG, Ind.) – Construction is underway on the Maypole Heritage Park project in Oldenburg.

Oldenburg Academy’s Innovation Council and the Freudenfest Committee recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the project which will transform the green space into a recreational area. 

The project comes after OA students launched a fundraising campaign to fix the aging basketball courts. 

The student-led initiative helped raise more than $25,000, which led to a state matching grant for a total of $50,000

These funds will allow the Council and the Town of Oldenburg to install three pickleball courts and one full-length basketball court in place of the existing underutilized courts. 

"This project exemplifies what can be achieved when education goes beyond the classroom and into the community," said Annette Hunger, President of Oldenburg Academy. "We are so proud of our students for their dedication and are equally proud that our school is part of Oldenburg's vibrant spirit." 

The Freudenfest Committee and the Town of Oldenburg secured funding through the Indiana DNR’s Next Level Trails Grant, which will be used to construct a 3,000-foot ADA-compliant asphalt walking trail that connects to the town’s existing sidewalks and trails. 

The path will feature memorial benches, with plans to eventually add a

community gathering shelter and landscaping. The scenic 2-mile loop will offer recreational opportunities for both pedestrians and cyclists. 

“The Maypole Heritage Park project is a shining example of what can happen when our community comes together,” said Innovation Council moderator Jason Walke. “Through collaboration and vision, we are honoring Oldenburg’s history while creating a dynamic, welcoming space for health, connection, and celebration." 

The project is expected to be complete this coming spring.